Merchant Gourmet have cultivated a reputation for both quality and convenience. Yes, their products are plant-based but they are so tempting that this card-carrying carnivore has become almost addicted to their pouches of well-flavoured comfort. I should mention that these foods are healthy, too, but don’t let that put you off.
Spicy Cajun-Style Lentils and Red Kidney Beans is the latest pouch in the Merchant Gourmet battery. These Puy and green lentils have been cooked together with red kidney beans in a rich tomato sauce, flavoured with jalapeño chilli pepper, rosemary and smoked paprika. But what is a Puy lentil?
Special EU Status
Puy lentils are cultivated the region of Le Puy-en-Velay in the South of France. The rich volcanic soil makes the land incredibly fertile. The dry and warm microclimate creates the perfect conditions in which to grow these celebrated lentils. To retain this special EU status, the farmers also have to adhere to strict rules such as not using any pesticides, and no irrigation, and they can’t grow Puy lentils on the same plot for two years in a row.
Many Mexican Dishes
These lentils are versatile and sustaining. They marry well with herbs and spices and are a good substitute for meat. Spicy Cajun-Style Lentils and Red Kidney Beans can be used in many Cajun and Mexican dishes thanks to the use of that iconic jalapeño pepper, and I love this mix in enchiladas, in particular. Simply fill four corn tortillas with the lentil and bean mix. Top with a little grated cheese and roll up tightly. Take a baking dish large enough to accommodate the rolled tortillas. Pour a little enchilada sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place the tortillas on top and cover with more enchilada sauce. Sprinkle a little grated cheese over the dish. Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes to heat through.
I have tried a few of the Merchant Gourmet range and they have all been innovative, easy to use and delicious. They don’t need freezing or keeping in the fridge, making them perfect pantry fillers or as office lunches. A comforting meal isn’t far away with Merchant Gourmet on hand.